Govs revolt as Wike’s expulsion breaks PDP

Governors Revolt as Wike’s Expulsion Fractures the PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nigeria’s main opposition party, has plunged into deeper crisis following the controversial expulsion of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), alongside ten other high-ranking party members.

This dramatic development unfolded during the PDP’s 20th National Convention held at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State, where a motion for their expulsion was tabled by Chief Olabode George, a former National Vice Chairman (South), and seconded by Samaila Burga, the Bauchi State PDP Chairman. The motion was overwhelmingly adopted by the party’s delegates.

The expelled individuals include not only Wike but also former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, the party’s National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, and other prominent figures such as Austin Nwachukwu, Mohammed Abdulrahman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, Abraham Amah, George Turner, and Chief Dan Orbih. The charges leveled against them center on alleged anti-party activities, a claim that has long been a source of internal friction within the PDP.

However, the expulsions have not gone unchallenged. Governors Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State and Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State have publicly dissociated themselves from the decision, expressing strong disapproval.

Governor Fintiri, in a statement released via his official social media account, emphasized that the expulsion did not reflect his stance and warned that such punitive measures could exacerbate the party’s internal divisions. He stressed the need for unity and reconciliation rather than exclusion, arguing that the PDP should focus on healing and rebuilding rather than deepening its crisis.

Governor Mutfwang echoed similar sentiments, urging the party leadership to prioritize dialogue and collective action over divisive decisions. He emphasized that the timing of the expulsions was particularly ill-advised, given the fragile state of the party and the need for solidarity ahead of future political contests.

Both governors underscored their commitment to the PDP but made it clear that they would not support actions that could further destabilize the party.

The fallout from the expulsions has sparked fears of a broader revolt within the PDP. Reports suggest that as many as 40 lawmakers and two additional governors are contemplating defection, citing dissatisfaction with the party’s handling of internal disputes and the perceived marginalization of key stakeholders. This potential exodus could significantly weaken the PDP’s position as a formidable opposition force, especially as the country approaches another critical electoral cycle.

The situation has also reignited debates about the leadership of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Umar Damagum. Critics argue that the NWC’s approach to discipline and internal governance lacks inclusivity and strategic foresight.

The expulsion of Wike, a powerful and influential figure within the party, is seen by many as a move that could backfire, given his political clout and the loyalty he commands among certain factions.

In summary, the expulsion of Nyesom Wike and other senior PDP figures has triggered a significant backlash within the party, with key governors openly opposing the move and warning of its potentially destructive consequences.

The PDP now faces a critical juncture: whether to double down on disciplinary actions or to pivot toward reconciliation and unity in a bid to salvage its cohesion and relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape.